The Chairman: Brighton Programme Notes

Steve Parish has written his matchday programme notes ahead of the visit of Brighton & Hove Albion. Read on for an update from the Chairman.

Welcome to the directors, players, staff and supporters of Brighton & Hove Albion for the 99th meeting between our two clubs, and as always to the Selhurst Park regulars.

I know just how important today’s match is for everyone lucky enough to be inside this stadium for the visit of our biggest rivals. With so much at stake, it is a massive prospect.

Yet again we suffered at the hands of a late goal at Bournemouth last week, but the performance was excellent and if we continue to perform like that I’m sure we will be able to retain our Premier League status. The injury crisis this season is the worst we’ve had in my memory, so a bit of good fortune in that regard would certainly be welcome.

Our under-23s have been crowned champions of the Professional Development League South, guaranteeing a home play-off against the runners-up of the northern section, which is a fantastic achievement for Richard Shaw and all the players. With our under-18s also looking good to reach the play-offs, we really should take a moment to savour these achievements and the progression of our academy this year. I’d urge you all to support them in the May play-offs.

Like everyone else in London, I’ve been astounded by the recent spate of violent crime. Whilst the government and media debate rages about possible solutions, I was pleased to hear that the Palace for Life Foundation will soon begin working with young people in our community who are at risk of taking the wrong path in life.

‘Breaking the Cycle’ is a targeted intervention programme that will offer mentoring sessions with 8-19-year-olds identified as having issues at school, have been exposed to violence or found to be in possession of a weapon for the first time to hopefully steer them away from trouble.

The London Borough of Croydon’s Planning Committee meet this Thursday to determine our stadium redevelopment plan. We’ve worked tirelessly in collaboration with the council to get it to this stage, and I hope that those councillors agree that it would be an overwhelmingly positive project in south London and grant us planning permission. To the 4,500 people who submitted supportive comments on the planning application, thank you.

Finally, I would like to add to the fitting tributes to a true footballing gentleman. Ray Wilkins was a wonderful player, and I remember watching him like it was yesterday.